Problems & Effects of Indigestion

Indigestion, which afflicts millions of people daily, occurs when stomach acid is overproduced or refluxes into the esophagus. The symptoms of indigestion can be merely an annoyance or severe and chronically incapacitating. If the symptoms are severe, physicians can often write prescriptions for medications that generally have good results.

Reflux Pain

• When indigestion causes acid reflux, painful burning in the esophagus can occur. This burning can be centered anywhere from behind the breastbone to the back of the throat.

Mistaken Symptoms

• People with chronic indigestion may mistake the signs of a heart attack with an episode of indigestion.

Esophageal Damage

• Long-term indigestion can cause physical damage to the esophagus or lining of the stomach (i.e., ulcers).

People at Risk

• The effects of indigestion may develop or become worse in pregnant women and overweight or overstressed individuals.

Considerations

• Smoking, overeating, drinking alcohol, eating spicy foods and various medications can all increase the effects and frequency of indigestion.